Case Study: P’s Journey to Full-Time Employment

Foundation4work is our free programme here at Foundations, offering tailored support with job hunting, CV writing, interview preparation, and job searching. The programme also offers hands-on experience in our retail and warehouse setting, and out on our van, helping our drivers to deliver and collect furniture. With one-to-one support available for up to 12 weeks, it's a great way to build the skills and confidence that employers value.

What's more, every participant receives free work boots, personal protective equipment (PPE), and travel expenses to and from our charity.

In this blog, we share how Foundation4Work helped P to gain work experience and secure a full time job within 12 weeks.

Background

P had recently been gained leave to remain in the UK and was eager to start looking for work. He discovered Foundations4work (F4W) through our Facebook page and reached out via email to find out more.

Following an initial chat with the team at F4W, P quickly decided to join the programme.

Challenges and Needs

P needed to update his CV and learn about job searching in the areas that interested him. Alongside this, he wanted to stay active and gain work experience and confidence. With a strong desire to contribute to charitable causes and help people in need, P was particularly drawn to the mission here at Foundations.

Programme Participation

At F4W, P quickly became an active and valued member of the team. He attended the programme up to three days per week (minimum requirement is one day per week) and showed great enthusiasm for various tasks. He particularly enjoyed helping with the delivery and collection of furniture on the van with our drivers, and he quickly picked up skills in repairing and assembling furniture.

P also completed several key training courses we have available in-house, including Equality and Diversity, Health and Safety, and Manual Handling. These training sessions, combined with his work experience, helped him feel more prepared for the job market, and are a great addition to a CV.

Support and Development

P had previously received support from a local refugee service, and the addition of the F4W programme helped grow his support network.

Through the programme, he received one-to-one assistance in updating his CV and writing job applications, and his confidence and ability to find employment grew significantly.

Outcomes and Impact

P described Foundation4work as a welcoming and inclusive environment that helped him feel supported and empowered during his job searching.

As a result of his efforts, P successfully secured a full-time role as an adviser on a help desk with a communications company.

Looking Forward

P is thrilled about his new role and hopes it will pave the way for further career opportunities in the future.

To find out more about volunteering and employment support in Gateshead, call the team on 0191 477 8337 or visit the Foundation4Work website.